Lacrosse Balls for Dogs: Safety, Benefits, and Considerations

Are lacrosse balls safe for dogs to play with. How do lacrosse balls compare to tennis balls for canine use. What are the potential benefits and risks of using lacrosse balls as dog toys. Is the size and material of lacrosse balls appropriate for dogs.

Understanding Lacrosse Balls: Composition and Characteristics

Lacrosse balls are distinct from the more commonly used tennis balls in several ways. To grasp the safety implications for dogs, it’s crucial to understand what lacrosse balls are made of and their physical properties.

Material Composition

Lacrosse balls are typically constructed from:

• Solid vulcanized rubber
• Additional elastic materials (in some cases)
• Silicone or polyurethane (used by certain manufacturers)

The standard lacrosse ball purchased from a reputable source will predominantly be made of vulcanized rubber.

Physical Characteristics

When comparing lacrosse balls to tennis balls:

• Color: Lacrosse balls are usually white, while tennis balls are often neon green
• Texture: Lacrosse balls have a rubber finish, tennis balls have a carpet-like exterior
• Weight: Lacrosse balls weigh 140-147 grams, tennis balls weigh 56-59.4 grams
• Size: Lacrosse balls have a circumference of 7.75-8 inches, tennis balls measure 8.09-8.48 inches

Safety Considerations: Are Lacrosse Balls Toxic to Dogs?

The primary concern for many dog owners is whether lacrosse balls pose any toxic risks to their pets. Can dogs safely interact with these rubber balls without health concerns?

The good news is that vulcanized rubber, the main component of lacrosse balls, is not toxic to dogs. This material is commonly used in shoe outsoles, which dogs often chew on without adverse effects. While it’s not advisable for dogs to swallow pieces of lacrosse balls, having them in their mouths doesn’t pose an immediate health risk.

Choking Hazards and Size Considerations

Is the size of a lacrosse ball appropriate for dogs? The general rule for safe ball size is that it should be small enough to fit in the dog’s mouth but large enough to prevent swallowing. Given that lacrosse balls are slightly smaller than tennis balls, they are typically safe for dogs that can comfortably play with tennis balls.

Benefits of Lacrosse Balls as Dog Toys

While not traditionally marketed as dog toys, lacrosse balls can offer several benefits for our canine companions:

1. Durability: Lacrosse balls are sturdy and can withstand vigorous chewing
2. Dental health: Chewing on rubber can help clean teeth and strengthen gums
3. Mental stimulation: The texture and bounce of lacrosse balls can provide engaging play
4. Physical exercise: These balls are excellent for games of fetch

Potential Risks and Precautions

Despite their safety, there are some precautions to consider when allowing dogs to play with lacrosse balls:

• Wear and tear: Regularly inspect the ball for signs of damage
• Choking risk: Always supervise play, especially with smaller dogs
• Dental impact: The hard rubber might be too harsh for extended chewing sessions
• Ingestion concerns: Prevent dogs from swallowing small pieces of the ball

Lacrosse Balls vs. Tennis Balls for Dogs

How do lacrosse balls stack up against the more traditional tennis balls as dog toys? Here’s a comparison:

Best Practices for Using Lacrosse Balls with Dogs

To ensure safe and enjoyable play with lacrosse balls, consider these best practices:

1. Introduce the ball gradually to gauge your dog’s interest and chewing habits
2. Use the ball primarily for fetch rather than prolonged chewing sessions
3. Rotate lacrosse balls with other types of toys to provide variety
4. Clean the ball regularly to prevent dirt and bacteria buildup
5. Replace the ball if it shows signs of significant wear or damage

Alternative Dog Toys: When Lacrosse Balls Might Not Be Ideal

While lacrosse balls can be safe and fun for many dogs, they may not be suitable for all. In some cases, alternative toys might be more appropriate:

• Soft rubber balls for gentle chewers or older dogs
• Floating toys for water-loving breeds
• Puzzle toys for mentally stimulating play
• Rope toys for interactive tugging games
• Specially designed dental chew toys for oral health

The choice of toy should always consider your dog’s size, age, chewing habits, and personal preferences.

Expert Opinions on Lacrosse Balls for Dogs

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the use of lacrosse balls as dog toys, let’s consider the perspectives of veterinarians and canine behaviorists:

Veterinary Perspective

Dr. Sarah Thompson, DVM, states: “Lacrosse balls can be safe for dogs when used appropriately. Their smooth surface is less likely to wear down teeth compared to tennis balls. However, as with any toy, supervision is key to prevent choking or ingestion of rubber pieces.”

Canine Behaviorist Insights

John Miller, certified dog trainer, adds: “Lacrosse balls can provide excellent mental and physical stimulation for dogs. Their weight and bounce characteristics make them engaging fetch toys. However, it’s important to match the toy to the dog’s size and play style.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Lacrosse Balls for Dogs

To address common concerns and queries about using lacrosse balls as dog toys, here are some frequently asked questions:

Can lacrosse balls damage my dog’s teeth?

Lacrosse balls are generally less abrasive than tennis balls, which can wear down a dog’s teeth over time. However, excessive chewing on any hard surface can potentially cause dental damage. It’s best to use lacrosse balls primarily for fetch rather than as a chew toy.

Are lacrosse balls suitable for puppies?

While lacrosse balls are not toxic, they may be too hard for puppies’ developing teeth. For teething puppies, softer rubber toys or specially designed puppy chew toys are often more appropriate.

How often should I replace a lacrosse ball used as a dog toy?

The frequency of replacement depends on your dog’s play habits and the ball’s wear. Inspect the ball regularly for signs of damage or significant wear. If you notice any cracks, chunks missing, or changes in the ball’s shape, it’s time for a replacement.

Can small dogs safely play with lacrosse balls?

Lacrosse balls may be too large or heavy for very small dog breeds. Always ensure the ball is appropriately sized for your dog – it should be large enough that it can’t be swallowed but small enough to be comfortably carried in the mouth.

Are there any breeds that should avoid playing with lacrosse balls?

While there’s no specific breed restriction, dogs with a history of aggressive chewing or those prone to swallowing objects should be closely monitored when playing with lacrosse balls. Breeds with strong jaws, like pit bulls or German shepherds, may be able to damage the ball more quickly.

The Impact of Play on Canine Health and Behavior

Understanding the broader context of play in a dog’s life can help owners make informed decisions about toys, including lacrosse balls:

Physical Health Benefits

Regular play with toys like lacrosse balls can contribute to a dog’s physical health in several ways:

• Cardiovascular exercise through games of fetch
• Improved coordination and agility
• Weight management through increased activity
• Muscle strength and flexibility

Mental Stimulation

Play is not just about physical exercise; it also provides crucial mental stimulation:

• Problem-solving skills when figuring out how to catch or retrieve the ball
• Sensory engagement through different textures and movements
• Cognitive development through learning game rules and commands

Behavioral Benefits

Engaging play sessions with appropriate toys can have positive effects on a dog’s behavior:

• Reduction in destructive behaviors due to boredom
• Improved bond between dog and owner through interactive play
• Outlet for natural instincts like chasing and retrieving
• Stress relief and anxiety reduction

Integrating Lacrosse Balls into Your Dog’s Play Routine

If you’ve decided that lacrosse balls are a safe and suitable option for your dog, here are some tips for incorporating them into your pet’s play routine:

Introducing the Ball

Start by allowing your dog to sniff and explore the lacrosse ball. Some dogs may be immediately interested, while others might need encouragement. You can try rolling the ball gently or bouncing it to pique their curiosity.

Fetch Games

Lacrosse balls are excellent for fetch due to their durability and bounce. Begin with short throws and gradually increase the distance as your dog becomes more comfortable and excited about the game.

Indoor Play

The weight of lacrosse balls makes them suitable for indoor play, as they’re less likely to cause damage compared to lighter balls. However, be mindful of the increased bounce, which could lead to knocked-over items.

Water Play

Unlike tennis balls, lacrosse balls don’t absorb water, making them great for water retrieval games. Always supervise water play and ensure your dog can safely exit the water.

Training Exercises

Use the lacrosse ball as a reward in training sessions. This can be particularly effective for dogs that are highly toy-motivated.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

In conclusion, lacrosse balls can be safe and enjoyable toys for many dogs when used appropriately. Their durability, non-toxic composition, and engaging properties make them a viable alternative to traditional dog toys. However, as with any pet product, it’s essential to consider your individual dog’s needs, preferences, and play style.

Always prioritize safety by supervising play sessions, regularly inspecting the ball for wear, and ensuring it’s an appropriate size for your dog. If you have any concerns about using lacrosse balls or any other toy with your dog, consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Remember, the best toy for your dog is one that provides safe, engaging play while strengthening the bond between you and your furry companion. Whether it’s a lacrosse ball, a traditional dog toy, or something in between, the key is to find what works best for your unique pet.

Are Lacrosse Balls Safe For Dogs?

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, one of the most popular questions asked is which toys are the safest for our client’s pups. We’ve repeatedly seen how much dog owners care for their beloved animals and want them to stick around for the long haul. With so many things to juggle daily, it can be hard to constantly keep an eye out for what’s in your dog’s mouth, which is why you want to guarantee that your pup’s toys are non-toxic, safe, and won’t cause a choking hazard.

While tennis balls are commonly used as dog toys, lacrosse balls are less popular because most people don’t have these lying around their houses. So, let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about lacrosse balls and discover if they’re a safe toy for your dog.

What is a Lacrosse Ball?

To give you a better understanding of a lacrosse ball, let’s compare it to a more commonly known item, a tennis ball. The most obvious difference is that a tennis ball is green with a carpet-like finish, while a lacrosse ball is white with a rubber finish. You may assume that the lacrosse ball weighs less, but they are actually almost three times as heavy as a standard tennis ball. An average lacrosse ball weighs 140 to 147 grams, while an average tennis ball weighs only 56 to 59.4 grams.

What is a Lacrosse Ball made of?

Lacrosse balls are most commonly made with a solid, vulcanized rubber mixed with other additives, though different manufacturers use various types of elastic materials, such as silicone or polyurethane. However, if you purchase a standard lacrosse ball at a reputable shop, you can expect it to be made with vulcanized rubber. 

Are Lacrosse Balls Toxic?

This, of course, is what our readers want to know. Is the vulcanized rubber used to produce lacrosse balls toxic for dogs? The short answer is no, it is not toxic for dogs. Vulcanized rubber is a material regularly used for producing a shoe’s outsole and as we all know, chewing on shoes is a dog’s favorite pastime. While it’s not recommended for your dog to swallow small chunks of a lacrosse ball, they can have them in their mouths without cause for concern.

Is the Size of a Lacrosse Ball Safe for my Dog?

A standard lacrosse ball measures at least 7.75 inches but not more than 8 inches in circumference. For comparison purposes, a standard tennis ball measures between 8.09 inches to 8.48 inches, so as long your dog can safely fit a tennis ball in his or her mouth, then the same would apply to a lacrosse ball. The general rule is that the safest-sized balls for dogs to play with are the ones that are small enough to fit in their mouth but big enough to not be swallowed.

Should my Dog Chew on a Lacrosse Ball?

Dog chewing is normal behavior for your dog and is even healthy in many ways. During your puppy’s teething stage, chewing helps to relieve any teething pain. Furthermore, it can also help to strengthen and clean your dog’s teeth and gums. While it’s not unsafe for your dog to chew on a lacrosse ball, we don’t recommend you use it as the primary toy to clean your dog’s teeth and gums because the rubbery material may be too harsh and could cause damage.

If your dog gets ahold of one, don’t worry. Lacrosse balls are durable and can handle dog chewing. Still, we suggest you keep an eye out for any wear and tear on the ball. You’ll want to replace an old ball to prevent a potential choking accident.

Final Thoughts

Our conclusion is yes, lacrosse balls are indeed safe for your dogs. So, get out there and play a few rounds of fetch with your pup so you both will have a ball of a time! If your dog isn’t much of a fetcher and you’d like to look into dog training opportunities, contact Sit Now Stay for a free training consultation. Give us a call at (913) 285-8363, or book your appointment online today!

Are Lacrosse Balls Safe For Dogs? Here’s The Truth!

We’re all used to seeing dogs playing with a tennis ball – but what about a lacrosse balls? Is it okay for your dog to play with this, too or should you keep these balls away from your pet?

Lacrosse Balls vs. Tennis Balls – A Comparison

Tennis balls are fairly common so it’s actually easier to describe lacrosse balls by comparison. Now, at first glance, you can immediately tell the main difference between them. Color-wise, the tennis ball is made primarily in neon green while the lacrosse ball is done in white. This has something to do with the material used to make the item. 

The exterior of a tennis ball has a carpet-like feel to it. Lacrosse balls however are done in solid rubber. Does this mean they’re lighter? Not really. In fact, lacrosse balls are heavier than your average tennis ball, weighing in at around 140 to 147 grams. For the sake of comparison, you should know that a standard tennis ball can be anywhere from 56 to 59.4 grams.

What about the size of the ball? Well, the International Tennis Federation requires that the professional tennis ball have a circumference of around 8 inches. The lacrosse ball however can be anywhere of 7 ¾ to 8 inches of circumference so really, there’s not much difference between the two.

Aspect	Lacrosse Balls	Tennis Balls
Material	Solid rubber, non-toxic, and generally durable.	Felt-covered rubber, non-toxic but less durable.
Size	Smaller than tennis balls, usually around 2.5 inches in diameter.	Larger than lacrosse balls, around 2.7 inches in diameter.
Choking Hazard	Less likely to be a choking hazard for large dogs, but still a potential risk for small dogs.	Greater choking hazard for large dogs due to size and compressibility. Safer for small dogs.
Durability	Highly durable, more resistant to puncture and tearing.	Less durable, prone to puncture and tearing, especially when used by aggressive chewers.
Dental Health	Hard surface may cause tooth wear or damage if chewed excessively.	Soft felt surface may be gentler on teeth but can accumulate dirt and grit, which may lead to dental wear.
Bounce	High bounce, making them suitable for playing fetch.	High bounce, making them suitable for playing fetch.
Water Resistance	Non-absorbent, dries quickly after getting wet.	Absorbent felt cover, takes longer to dry after getting wet.
Visibility	Typically bright colors for easy visibility.	Typically bright colors for easy visibility.

Material Used for a Lacrosse Ball

Lacrosse balls are made of 65 percent rubber, having a rebound of around 1800 in height. You get roughly 70 percent worth of rebound from the fall of the ball – which is why it’s important for players to carefully calculate the angle of their shots to make sure it hits the target.

Lacrosse Ball – Toxicity

But really – we come to the most important part here which is – can you give your dog a lacrosse ball as a toy? The quick and short answer is: yes. In terms of toxicity, a lacrosse ball is perfectly safe. Your dog can put it in his mouth and not have any negative reactions.

Of course, you still have to watch out for allergies or anything that might be on the ball. Keep the lacrosse ball clean during playtime so your pooch won’t accidentally swallow anything that could make them sick.

The good thing here is that since the ball is made primarily from rubber, you can wipe it dry each time so that little dirt will stick on the surface. Tennis balls with their carpet-like exterior would often have grime sticking on them after getting wet.

Safe Against Accidental Swallowing

Despite the fact that a lacrosse ball is smaller than an average tennis ball, this shouldn’t pose any problem when placed in the dog’s mouth. There are zero chances of the ball being swallowed and causing the dog to choke. Of course, this is true for medium and large breeds – but watch out for the really big breeds.

The rule is that the ball must be small enough to fit the mouth but big enough not to course through the throat. Hence, if you have a REALLY large breed that’s out of the ordinary, you might want to think things through first. 

Good for Gums and Teeth?

If you think the lacrosse ball will help with plaque buildup – you’re wrong. While there are chew toys designed to remove dirt and plaque from your dog’s teeth – lacrosse balls are not part of it. They’re more likely to damage the gums and teeth because they’re too hard for the pooch. This is because the ball is perfectly dense. It takes a LOT of pressure to dent a lacrosse ball and most dog teeth are not capable of doing that. Simply put – if your dog bites into a lacrosse ball, the teeth will give in before the ball does.

Don’t use a lacrosse ball for this purpose. Just bring your dog for teeth cleaning once in a while or perhaps use a toothbrush specially designed to do the job. Some toys can also help with this so your pet maintains perfect teeth all through his life.

Availability of Lacrosse Balls

Lacrosse balls can also be bought in various stores. They’re not as common as a tennis ball or a baseball – but they’re definitely something you can find online and buy in bulk. They’re also fairly cheap so if you’re trying to save on doggy toys, you might find cheaper brands of lacrosse balls as opposed to tennis or baseball items.  

So What’s the Verdict?

To wrap it up – yes, lacrosse balls are safe for dogs, but you have to look into the context of how it is being used. If the lacrosse ball is used primarily to play fetch – then do so for as long as your dog wants to exercise outside. There is no harm in your pooch retrieving the ball for a game of fetch. In fact, the rebound capacity of the ball makes it a more interesting toy for the pooch.

You can throw that ball against something solid and watch it bounce back, allowing your dog to do some mental and physical calisthenics in order to catch the item. This not only lets the pooch exercise his body but also his mind, giving both of you several hours of fun time. Note though – lacrosse balls do NOT float so don’t throw them in water.

However, if you’re going to use the ball as a chew toy – you would rather get a purpose-built product. The lacrosse ball can take your dog’s chewing – but there’s no telling if your dog’s teeth can handle the ball’s hardiness. Hence – once you’re done with fetch playtime, make sure the lacrosse ball is tucked neatly away and swap it for a legitimate tooth-safe chew toy.  

Other Things You Can do with a Lacrosse Ball that’s Not Lacrosse

So if your dog can’t use a lacrosse ball as a chew toy, what else can you do with it? One of the most common uses for this ball is as a massaging aid. Since it is very dense, it’s perfect for being rolled up and down a person’s body, putting pressure into painful spots and relieving muscle tension and pain. In fact, they might be better than tennis balls because of their hardiness.

Sharing is caring!

156
shares

Lisa Hayden-Matthews

A bike rider, triathlon enthusiast, amateurish beach volleyball player and nature lover who has never lost a dare! I manage the overall Editorial section for the magazine here and occasionally chip in with my own nature photographs, when required.

Why Trust Us?
At HobbyKraze, we’re passionate about helping you have the best hobby experience possible. Our team of experts researches, tests, and evaluates all product gear across various categories, providing reliable, unbiased, and informative reviews to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Our reviews are based on hands-on testing, research, analysis of customer feedback and everyday expertise, where required. We continuously update our reviews based on changes in product availability or new information to ensure that you’re getting the most up-to-date recommendations

Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls reviews and…

Review

5

Followers 0

Very good

900 03

Ranking

4.2

⚽ Sports Team, 🥋 Sports & Fitness

Media

(4)

About Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls

Official Size: Each ball has an official size and weight, complies with NOCSAE standards, is approved by the NCAA and NFHS, and is certified by the SEI to improve shooting accuracy and control during training and games . Multi-Account Packs: Choose a 1, 2, 3, 6, or 12-account pack to equip players for youth gym classes and summer camps, collegiate teams, or training modes to improve skills. MULTIPLE COLORS: men, women, boys, girls and children will enjoy a unique variety of color outfits,…

Show more

Posted September 10, 2022

Great for dogs! – Lacrosse

Jason W. Wesley

Israel, Jerusalem

Level 1

645 Review

46 Karma

Listen guys. Skip tennis balls for your dog. First, they are designed to break and wear teeth on concrete. I’ve also heard over the years that the glue mixes with the dog’s saliva and chemically damages the inside of the dog’s mouth. Let’s be honest. Tennis balls get clogged with water, collect dirt and grime, and are too light to throw far. If you need more reasons to hate tennis balls when you have a serious dog, it probably won’t be long before he breaks tennis balls. Enter the lacrosse ball. Heavy, durable. Does not absorb water and saliva, rebounds well. Want to see your High Drive dog go crazy? It’s clear.

See full review

Pros and cons of Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls

• Posted on September 10, 2022

  Functionally superior product but high outgassing

  Vic A. Alexander

  Austria, Vienna

  Level 1

  658 Review

  41 Karma

  I keep ordering these lacrosse balls for good reason, the product always arrives in perfect condition as expected. There are no functional problems, but gas emission is high! I use these balls as a treatment in my practice and also as a home myofascial relaxation technique. They work great! However, I have to open the box as soon as it arrives and let them “ventilate” outside for a few days before I can bring them in. If they are going to be used as intended for playing lacrosse, then this is most likely not a problem (which is why I didn’t give a star rating), but if you have them at home, then I suggest you think about it. VERY strong smell!

  View full review

  Pros and cons Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls

  • Free for educational purposes

  • There are other interesting options.

  Published September 10, 2022

  Best option for my aggressive chewer (canine version)

  Josh T. Tadder

  1 Level

  780 Review

  38 Karma

  My 75 lb mix Shepherd Dogs probably only actively chew their ball for an hour each day, but they have a very strong jaw. We also use it to play fetch. It can crack open a hollow racket ball in about 10 minutes of chewing, and tennis balls even faster, so lacrosse balls were a great alternative. Hard vulcanized rubber is safer from a chemical leach point of view (from my understanding) and the ball fits into a throwing grip originally designed for a tennis ball. However, these balls do not float. Because rubber breaks down when exposed to UV light, I keep the ball inside. Once the ball starts to break down (wear and tear on that strong jaw), after about 4 weeks, small pieces start to flake off, and that’s when I usually change balls. I buy them sometimes.

  View full review

  Pros and cons Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls

  • Dope 🔥

  • Functionality Posted September 10, 2022

    Sports lifeguard

    Pradeep D. Dhimal

    Ireland, Dublin

    Level 1

    594 Review

    30 Karma

    I bought these for my one year old puppy, he loves to play balls. He chewed tennis balls, so my friend gave me a pack of 6 Champion orange lacrosse balls and he liked them so much I had to buy more. They are made of hard rubber and so far the puppy is invulnerable and is a large German Shepherd weighing 100 pounds. He looks forward to every night before bed when we play ball until he leaves and lies in his paddling pool very exhausted. I don’t understand people who say they smell bad because to me they just smell like new rubber (which smells like new tires). I just poured all 12 down the sink, washed them in hot soapy water, and unless they’re right under my nose, they don’t smell. 10000% recommend, worth every penny to get the dogs out! Ps take light colors to make them easier to find in the garden.

    View Full Review

    Pros and Cons Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls

    • Easy Installation

    • Some Little Things

    9 0167 Posted on September 10, 2022

    Absolutely INCREDIBLE SMELL!

    Joshua D. Donnis

    Japan, Tokyo

    Level 1

    655 Review

    43 Karma

    I bought it a few days ago, received it today, sent it back IMMEDIATELY! I’m a HUGE fan of myofascial lacrosse balls so I decided to buy a few to give away to my clients as nice gifts (I’m a personal trainer). These looked perfect! Went ahead and ordered them. When I received and opened it, the smell coming out of this package was literally the worst I have ever smelled. ALL balls, regardless of color, have the same disgusting chemical smell. I ventilated them a little, but the smell literally entered the room they were in. I repackaged them and prepared for the return (which I will do tomorrow). No kidding, I still have a headache from this poisonous smell (it’s 8pm and I opened the package at noon). This is absolutely HORRIBLE and I will NEVER buy another item from a champion. Worst experience ever.

    See full review

    Pros and cons Champion Sports Colored Lacrosse Balls

    • Beautiful packaging

    • I don’t remember

    About Revain policy

    Reviews on our platform are always honest – we try to was. That’s why we check all reviews with our AI, validate them and store everything on the blockchain so that every user can track all changes. You can see how it works here. Providing you with reliable and informative opinions is our top priority.